Crispy General Tso’S Tofu: A Deliciously Spicy Chinese Takeout Delight

I absolutely love General Tso’s Tofu. It is my go-to dish whenever I’m in the mood for something savory and delicious. There’s just something about the mix of crispy tofu, sweet and spicy sauce, and crunchy vegetables that always hits the spot. This Crispy General Tso’s Tofu recipe is a great way to make this classic dish at home. The key is to get the tofu perfectly crispy, so follow the instructions carefully and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal.

Crispy General Tso’S Tofu Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 (1/2 inch) piece fresh ginger, slightly crushed
• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• ½ (16 ounce) package extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

• In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, chicken broth, rice vinegar, dark brown sugar, white pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and place in the hot oil. Fry the tofu for about 5 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crispy.
• Reduce the heat to medium and add the ginger and green onions to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
• Pour the soy sauce mixture over the tofu and stir to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
• In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry.
• Add the slurry to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
• Serve the tofu over steamed rice and garnish with the chopped peanuts and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 159
• Fat: 6.6g
• Carbohydrates: 14.7g
• Protein: 8.7g
• Sodium: 662mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

What makes general tso’s tofu a unique vegan dish?

General Tso’s Tofu is a unique vegan dish because it combines the savory flavors of a classic Chinese takeout dish with a vegan-friendly protein. The use of tofu instead of chicken or pork makes the dish a healthier option, and the addition of fresh vegetables, such as broccoli and bell peppers, gives it a boost of nutrition. The crispy texture of the tofu, combined with the sweet and spicy sauce, creates a flavorful dish that is sure to please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The vegan-friendly nature of the dish makes it a great option for those looking to reduce their consumption of animal products or to add variety to their diets.

How does the flavor of general tso’s tofu compare to the traditional chicken version?

The flavor of General Tso’s tofu is similar to the traditional chicken version, but with a more subtle sweetness.

• The tofu absorbs the sauce more readily than chicken, giving it a richer flavor.
• The tofu also has a more delicate texture, making it a good alternative for those who are looking for a lighter dish.
• The flavor of General Tso’s tofu also includes a hint of garlic and ginger, which adds a unique depth to the dish.
• The overall flavor of General Tso’s tofu is a bit milder than the traditional chicken version, but still maintains a distinct and delicious taste.

What is the key to achieving a crispy texture?

The key to achieving a crispy texture for General Tso’s Tofu is to coat the tofu with cornstarch and fry it in oil. The cornstarch helps to create a lightly golden and crispy outer layer that locks in the flavor and contrasts nicely with the soft and chewy center. Additionally, the oil used for frying should be hot enough to ensure that the cornstarch coating sticks to the outside of the tofu and creates a crisp texture.

To achieve this crispy texture, begin by cutting the tofu into cubes and patting them dry with paper towels. This will help to remove any excess moisture and enable the cornstarch to adhere to the surface of the tofu. Next, place the cubes in a shallow dish or zip-top bag with the cornstarch and gently shake until the cubes are evenly coated. Finally, heat a generous amount of oil in a heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat and fry the cubes for about 5 minutes, flipping them occasionally, until they are crisp and golden.

By following these simple steps, you can easily achieve a crispy texture for your General Tso’s Tofu. The combination of the lightly golden and crunchy outer layer and the soft and chewy center makes this dish a fantastic addition to any meal.

What ingredients are essential to creating a flavorful sauce?

When it comes to creating a flavorful sauce for a dish like Crispy General Tso’s, you’ll need to assemble an array of essential ingredients. At the heart of the sauce will be a combination of sweet, sour and spicy elements to create an unforgettable flavor.

The base of the sauce should include soy sauce and rice vinegar for a salty flavor, brown sugar or honey for sweetness, and a bit of chili pepper flakes or garlic to provide a kick of heat. You’ll also want to add some oil to the mix, such as sesame or vegetable oil, to ensure the sauce coats and sticks to the tofu.

To further enhance the flavor of the sauce, add a few aromatic ingredients such as fresh garlic or ginger, or a bit of Chinese five spice powder. You can also add additional sweetness and acidity with a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of rice wine.

Finally, to give the sauce a glossy, attractive look, add a tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot to the mix. This will help the sauce thicken and cling to the tofu when served.

With these essential ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and flavorful sauce for Crispy General Tso’s Tofu. Experiment with the amounts and ingredients to find the perfect balance of sweet, sour and spicy flavors.

What side dishes complement general tso’s tofu?

When it comes to pairing side dishes with General Tso’s tofu, there are a few Asian-inspired dishes that make a perfect complement. Stir-fried vegetables like bok choy and snow peas, steamed rice, and lo mein are all excellent options for absorbing the sauce and flavors of the tofu.

For a light and crunchy side dish, a simple cucumber salad can be served alongside the tofu. Thinly slice cucumbers and toss with a mixture of sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a dash of sugar. For a hearty side dish, serve the tofu with a side of steamed greens like spinach or kale.

For a low-carb option, try a roasted vegetable dish. Roast bell peppers, onions and mushrooms with a little olive oil, garlic and herbs. This can be served with the tofu, or as a delicious side dish for a complete meal.

Finally, for a comforting side dish, make a vegetable curry. A simple curry can be made with coconut milk, curry powder, and chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini. Add a few tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce and simmer until the vegetables are tender. This can be served over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a delicious and nutritious meal.

No matter which side dish you choose, General Tso’s tofu is sure to be a hit. With a few simple and flavorful sides, you can easily create a delicious meal that’s sure to please.